Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

SIBLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL - Washington, DC
Knowledge Is Power – Oncology Education  

What is it? 
In 2000, the first free educational seminar Breast Health: Knowledge Is Power was presented to the community. The keynote speaker was breast cancer survivor and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Conner. The seminar included a panel of medical experts who discussed advances in diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer with an opportunity for questions and answers. With the enthusiastic response from the community, the seminar continues to be offered annually.

In 2006, two new free seminars with the same format were introduced: Lung Health: Knowledge Is Power, with guest speaker Jennifer L. Garst, MD, medical oncologist, Duke University Medical Center, and Colorectal Health: Knowledge Is Power, with keynote speaker Arch Campbell, WRC-TV entertainment reporter and cancer survivor. In 2008, a new seminar Ovarian Health: Knowledge Is Power was presented with specialists discussing early detection, diagnosis and treatment options.

Who is it for? 
All interested members of the community, most particularly those diagnosed with cancer, cancer survivors, and their family and friends.

Why do they do it? 
It has been the mission of the Hospital since it’s founding in 1890 to improve the health status of the community through education, prevention and early detection of disease. There are disproportionately high rates of cancer diagnosis in the District of Columbia and nearby sections of Maryland and Northern Virginia. These free seminars, now totaling four a year, are supported in part through private donations, grants, the participation and cooperation of the medical and hospital staff, and the support of the community.

Impact: 
The breast seminar, having just finished its 9th year attracts about 250 people per year:  lung, 80 per year; and colorectal, 80 per year.  The first ovarian seminar attracted 100 people.

Contact:  Sheliah Roy
Director, Public Relations & Marketing
Telephone: 202.243.2347
E-mail:  SRoy@sibley.org